Artemis II Commander Shares Stunning Earthset Video Captured on iPhone 17 Pro Max

• April 20, 2026

NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, commander of the recent Artemis II mission orbiting the Moon, has released a breathtaking video capturing an “Earthset”—the Earth disappearing behind the lunar horizon. The remarkable footage was recorded using an iPhone 17 Pro Max, utilizing the device’s 8x zoom capability.

The video showcases the Earth slowly setting beyond the Moon’s edge, an event rarely experienced and captured in such vivid detail. Wiseman shared the clip on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the uniqueness of the moment with a poignant reflection on its rarity.

Smartphone Technology Meets Space Exploration

This instance marks a notable example of modern consumer technology intersecting with space exploration. The usage of the iPhone 17 Pro Max to document such an extraordinary celestial event highlights the advancements in smartphone camera capabilities, particularly in optical zoom and low-light video recording.

While space missions have historically relied on specialized photographic equipment, the ability for astronauts to capture high-quality media using a device that also serves as a communication tool demonstrates the versatility and accessibility of contemporary technology.

Despite the impressive technical feat, specific technical details such as the video’s resolution or any particular settings used during filming were not disclosed. However, the clear and detailed visual outcome speaks to the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s enhanced imaging system compared to previous models.

Wiseman’s footage adds a new dimension to public engagement with space missions, offering a glimpse at cosmic phenomena from a human perspective. The Earthset video is both a scientific curiosity and a moment of artistic beauty, bridging the gap between space technology and everyday devices.

The Artemis II mission itself represents a significant step in NASA’s renewed lunar exploration strategy, with commanders like Wiseman providing both leadership onboard and unique content for public audiences. Moments like these help to humanize space travel and stimulate interest in continued exploration.

As smartphone technology continues to evolve, future missions may increasingly incorporate these devices for documentation, easing the need for bulkier traditional cameras while offering enhanced mobility and multifunctionality. The successful use of an iPhone 17 Pro Max during Artemis II could set a precedent for such practices.

Ultimately, the video shared by Commander Reid Wiseman stands as a testament to the merging of cutting-edge technology and the awe-inspiring vistas encountered during spaceflight, bringing a fresh lens to how humanity observes and appreciates our planet from beyond Earth’s bounds.

NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman posts a remarkable Earthset video filmed with 8x zoom on the iPhone 17 Pro Max during Artemis II mission.